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+--- Thread: Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? (/showthread.php?tid=7483)
Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? - TonyB - 08-23-2010
Aloha friends,
We are considering cooling options for our home in Kapoho for when it gets really hot and also to deal with moisture and mold issues. We noticed none of our neighbors had HVAC systems maybe due to electrical costs or maybe no need for one.
How expensive is it to run a window unit or free standing portable AC unit?
Also, noticed there was an inexpensive solar system just for HVAC system, any experience with this?
Mahalo and Aloha, Tony
RE: Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? - Kapohocat - 08-24-2010
Tony, I live down the street from you and rarely would I ever consider a AC unit. This month is about the hottest we will get - even right now in the middle of the afternoon with my office against a sunny wall - the air flow is pleasant. I turn my fan on low to stir the air in the AM through afternoon. By late afternoon the trades are really nice.
There are a few still days if a hurricane is coming towards us as it will cut off the trade winds and be really humid but thats it. Nights seem to be fine - unfortunately that was the design flaw with this house such high ceilings and not vented windows so our bedroom gets warm at night but nothing a fan on low doesn't take care of. This house is not our design and SB also hates how it was built but soon enough we'll be moving over a block to the older but improved place!
With our highest temp at about 89 degrees, I can not see it warranted. And of course you might want to wait till you see your first few electric bills with you living here before you make the AC decision. OUCH!
RE: Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? - TonyB - 08-24-2010
Mahalo Kapohocat,
I was hoping someone from the hood would respond. By the way Randall starts soon on the painting of our house. Mahalo and Aloha, Tony
RE: Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? - hotinhawaii - 08-25-2010
White roof. White roof. White roof. I can't say it enough. This is the best method to keep any house much cooler during the day and at night since heat does not build up in the house during the day.
RE: Window AC units and solar HVAC systems? - Kapohocat - 08-26-2010
SB just installed the insulated roofing panels that Rob Tucker sold, and they said the difference in temp was amazing as soon as the panels went up.
We are looking into those for our remodel.